Lafayette Fellowship
One year of master’s-level study in France.
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- be under the age of 27 as of July of the funded year
- possess a bachelor's degree from a U.S. institution obtained within the last 3 years
- have an interest in addressing global challenges in a French-American context
About the Lafayette Fellowship
Launched in honor of the 250th anniversary of the American Declaration of Independence and the French-American friendship, the Lafayette Fellowship will support up to 30 outstanding U.S. students for one year of master’s-level study at one of 15 top French institutions. Programs span Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, the Humanities, Social Sciences, and the Arts, offered in French or English.
Alongside their academic coursework, fellows will join the French-American Leadership Program, gaining mentorship support and full immersion into European innovation, culture, and policy.
Amount Awarded
The Lafayette Fellowship covers one year of:
- Tuition, travel, program activities, and administrative costs.
- A € 1,500 monthly stipend to cover accommodations and basic living expenses.
Application Process
Lafayette candidates must submit a online fellowship application and also apply for admission to at least one (and up to two) French partner institutions. Candidates apply through the university's platform, abiding by their individual requirements and timeline.
Selection
- District Pre-Selection - Applications are divided into 4 U.S. districts based on where applicants completed undergraduate degree. District committees select candidates for online interviews
- National Jury - Committee evaluates candidates based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and commitment to the French-American relationship
Campus Application Deadline
The Lafayette Fellowship does not have a campus process and does not require a Stanford nomination.
National Application Deadline
The national deadline is November. Eligible applicants will now submit their applications directly to the Lafayette online application. The application process is lengthy and requires many months of preparation.
Additional Info
Number Awarded: 15 awards
Find additional information, including application criteria, at the Lafayette Fellowship Program website.